Freedom of Choice Act

California has created additional protections for reproductive rights by adding an affirmative right to choose into its state law.  This law ensures women's access to pre-viability abortions and would remain in effect even if Roe v. Wade were overturned.

"The legislature finds and declares that every individual possesses a fundamental right of privacy with respect to personal reproductive decisions. . . Every individual has the fundamental right to choose or refuse birth control. . . Every woman has the fundamental right to choose to bear a child or to choose and to obtain an abortion. . . The state shall not deny or interfere with a woman's fundamental right to choose to bear a child or to choose and obtain an abortion. . ."  Cal. Health & Safety Code § 123462 (Enacted 2002).